How to Clean a Bike Helmet? – Best Way to Clean it

Cleaning of bike helmets should be done on an alternative day which increases the durability and lifespan of the helmet.

Why Is Cleaning Bike Helmet Important?

Cleaning the helmet is very important for keeping it in use for a longer period of time. With the passage of time, the helmet undergoes corrosion due to excessive dust, chemicals, and dirt from the helmet. The foam layer which makes up the bulk of the helmet which is called EPS liner starts to get damaged over time and only protects the outer plastic shell of the helmet. Hence cleaning a helmet increases its lifespan, protecting your head for a longer time.

Steps to Clean a Bike Helmet

Whether you’re cleaning a an open face or full face helmet, there are 3 important steps that you need to follow while cleaning every bicycle helmet. Helmet consists of the following three parts which include the outer shell, inner part, and strap.

The outer shell of the helmet needs to be cleaned with the rag whereas the inner part and the strap should be cleaned up with soapy water and brush. Pads of the helmet are removable and washable.

While cleaning the helmet, make sure that you clean the vents and edges. The plastic retention system of the helmet should also be cleaned with a wipe. Soak the strap of the helmet into the soap water or detergent for proper cleaning. For removing mud stains, use a tougher bristle brush for proper cleaning of it.

Also read my review about best full face mountain bike helmets available in the market

Parts of Bike Helmet to Clean

Helmet consists of four major parts including the outer shell, inner part, and the strap. The outer shell of the helmet has a matte plastic layer that protects the thicker part of the helmet. For cleaning the plastic, use a microfiber cloth or rag to avoid scratches and prevent plastic from getting damaged.

The main and the thick part of the helmet are in the middle inner part. This part is made of high-quality foam called EPS. This is the most important part of the helmet which protects the head and absorbs shocks in a crash. This is the hardest part to be cleaned due to small cavities and holes. By using a brush in warm water, the dirt can be removed easily.

As the straps of the helmet have direct contact with the head, they easily get dirty. These nylon straps can be cleaned easily by soaking them in warm soapy water.

Further moving towards the inner padding, they are attached to the foam with the help of velcros. These pads are made of high-quality sponge and are able to absorb sweat which with the passage of time becomes smelly. As these pads are removable, they can be washed easily in the washing machine.

You may also be interested to read comparison of bike helmet vs skate helmet

Do Cleaning Chemicals Damage The Helmet?

If you use mild detergents or dishwashing soaps for cleaning the helmet, then they are not going to damage the helmet because they are water-based. Cleaners that include petroleum can damage the helmet because they cause adverse reactions when combined with EPS foam which is considered to be the main part of the helmet.

Helmet has MIPS technology whose function is to decrease the risk factor of head injury. This part of the helmet consists of an inner foamed part that is attached to the head of the rider. The retention system of the helmet protects the head of the rider and provides security to it. The helmets with MIPS technology can also be washed easily.

Sometimes sweat odor can be really hard to get rid of. To remove the smell, you have to keep the pads for an hour. Another effective way of getting rid of the stubborn odor is to use white vinegar. The smell of vinegar can also be removed easily after a couple of hours. Hence cleaning each and every part of the helmet should be cleaned thoroughly for increasing its lifespan of the helmet.

FAQs of Bike Helmet Cleaning

How do you clean a bicycle helmet?

The easy way to clean the bicycle helmet is to soak the parts in warm soapy water for easy removal of the dirt. The pads are also removable and washable.

How do you clean a non-removable helmet liner?

If the liner of the helmet is non-removable, the easiest way is to keep the helmet in the basin or tub for a few minutes in the warm water and start scrubbing the dirt from the helmet.

Final Thoughts about Bike Helmet Cleaning

Cleaning the helmet is very important for keeping it in use for a longer period of time. With the passage of time, the helmet leads to corrosion due to excessive dust, chemicals, and dirt from the helmet.

The foam layer which makes up the bulk of the helmet which is called EPS liner starts to get damaged over time and only protects the outer plastic shell of the helmet. Helmets have MIPS technology whose function is to decrease the risk factor of head injury.

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